Description
Book SynopsisThe surprising and unofficial system of social control and regulation that keeps crime rates low in New York City's Washington Square Park Located in New York City's Greenwich Village, Washington Square Park is a 9.75-acre public park that is perhaps best known for its historic Washington Square Arch, a landmark at the foot of 5th Avenue. Hundreds, if not thousands, pass through the park every day, some sit on benches enjoying the sunshine, play a game of chess, watch their children play in the playground, take their dog to the dog runs, or sit by the fountain or, sometimes, buy or sell drugs. The park has an extremely low crime rate. Sociologist, and local resident, Erich Goode wants to know why. He notes that many visitors do violate park rules and ordinances, even engaging in misdemeanors like cigarette and marijuana smoking, alcohol consumption, public urination, skateboarding and bike riding. And yet, he argues, contrary to the well-known broken windows theory, which suggests that
Trade Review"Based on direct and perceptive observations, Erich gives us a complete, comparative and comprehensive view of what is going on in WSP. Very wisely, he contextualizes this view in more general perspectives of NYC, the U.S.A and relevant sociological perceptions. Consequently, readers are taken not only to a fascinating social tour of the park, but also absorb outstanding exposes of looking at WSP from different, relevant and insightful angles. This provides an absolutely engaging, pleasurable and a wonderfully positive reading and learning experience. This is a breathtaking text that people will love to read and enjoy. It is both descriptive and analytical, suggesting many insights and most of all, makes one think." -- Nachman Ben-Yehuda, Co-author of Fraud and Misconduct in Research
"With knowing mind and perceptive eye, this veteran sociologist unlocks the hyper-civility of Washington Squareoften held as archetype for social richness in a public place. Goode displays how democratic values and complex accommodation can live through daily interactionin quarrels and kindness, decencies and, yes, some disrespect. It is, in ways we learn, the blemished agora of hybrid greatness." -- Harvey Molotch, Author of Against Security
"Rich in detail and analysis, Eric Goode’s book portrays Washington Square Park through the eyes of an affectionate observer. His
The Taming of New York’s Washington Square is an important addition to the literature on this famous public space" -- Criminal Law and Criminal Justice
"Goode’s study of Washington Square is a deep dive into how this space is used and what we can learn from the interactions within… an intimate exploration of a much-loved place, grounded in traditional sociological concepts." * American Journal of Sociology *
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The Taming of New York’s Washington Square offers ideas about safety and tolerance in public spaces in cities at a time when Americans are passionately debating the role of law enforcement in society. ... Washington Square Park, Erich Goode demonstrates, presents a model that prioritizes the responsibility of citizens in maintaining civility and relegates police to a secondary role." * Gotham: A Blog for Scholars of New York City History *
